ISL 2015: Blow for Kerala Blasters as former Arsenal man retires hurt

Blasters have also had an offer for James McFadden turned down.

November 16, 2015 18:55 IST

Former Arsenal forward Sanchez Watt has been ruled out of the Indian Super League this season, after the Kerala Blasters star picked up an injury in their game against Atletico de Kolkata earlier this month.

It comes as a major blow to the ISL side from Kerala, less than 24 hours after they recorded their biggest win of the season against NorthEast United FC on Sunday. Chris Dagnall scored a brace, while Antonio German and Cavin Lobo got a goal each for Blasters as they notched a 4-1 win.

Sanchez, 24, remained a key figure in the Kerala Blasters attacking line this season, scoring twice in eight appearances this season. The franchisee are already on the lookout for a new forward.

According to ISL regulations, the eight teams are allowed to sign replacements for injured players only up to the 10th round.

However, according to a Kerala publication, Kerala Blasters had already applied for an approval from the ISL organisers for getting a replacement for Sanchez, prior to their tenth game against NEUTD FC on Sunday.

It is to be noted that the former Scotland international James McFadden was lined up as a replacement for marquee player Carlos Marchena, who also had to head back home owing to injuries prior to the start of the season.

McFadden has reportedly turned down the offer to play in the ISL, and it needs to be seen whether Kerala Blasters can indeed get a like-for-like replacement for the duo as they look ahead to the four remaining games in the regular league season this year.

Sachin Tendulkar's co-owned side is currently seventh in the league, and has to dish out some really good performances in the remaining games to make it to the playoffs of the ISL this year.